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Data Recovery Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Customer Care Representative

Novato, CA

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Outbound call follow-up * Working directly with data recovery engineers to report engineers' findings * Answering questions about the technical process of data recovery and associated pricing If you ...

Senior Data Engineer

Vista, CA ยท On-site +1

$108K - $147K/yr

Recommend/Ensure technical functionality (e.g. scalability, security, performance, data recovery, reliability, etc.) for Data Engineering * Facilitate workshops to define requirements and develop ...

Senior Data Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$114K - $155K/yr

Recommend/Ensure technical functionality (e.g. scalability, security, performance, data recovery, reliability, etc.) for Data Engineering * Facilitate workshops to define requirements and develop ...

Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Implement advanced error correction and data recovery mechanisms * Build and contribute to a suite ... Deep expertise in systems programming languages (C, C++, Rust) with a focus on performance ...

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Showing results 1-20

Data Recovery Engineer information

See California salary details

$43.9K

$128K

$175.2K

How much do data recovery engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for data recovery engineer in California is $128,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,000.00 and $135,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Data Recovery Engineer vs Data Storage Technician?

AspectData Recovery EngineerData Storage Technician
CredentialsCertifications like CDFA, CompTIA Storage+Certifications like CompTIA Storage+ or vendor-specific
Work EnvironmentData recovery labs, IT departments, forensic labsData centers, server rooms, IT support environments
Industry UsageIT, cybersecurity, forensic analysisIT, enterprise storage management
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to data recovery and repairManaging and maintaining data storage systems

While both roles involve working with data systems, Data Recovery Engineers focus on retrieving lost or damaged data from storage devices, often requiring forensic skills. Data Storage Technicians manage and maintain storage hardware and systems. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments but differ in primary responsibilities.

What are some common challenges a Data Recovery Engineer faces during the recovery process?

Data Recovery Engineers often encounter challenges such as dealing with physically damaged storage devices, working with proprietary or outdated file systems, and ensuring data integrity throughout the recovery process. They must use specialized tools in cleanroom environments to prevent further damage to sensitive hardware. Additionally, engineers frequently collaborate with clients and IT teams to understand data priorities and provide clear communication about what data can realistically be recovered. Staying updated with evolving storage technologies and encryption methods is also crucial for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Recovery Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Recovery Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, data storage systems, and file system architecture, often supported by a degree in IT or related certifications. Familiarity with data recovery software, hardware imaging tools, and disk forensics platforms is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for accurately diagnosing data loss issues and ensuring the safe and effective recovery of critical information for clients.

What does a Data Recovery Engineer do?

A Data Recovery Engineer specializes in retrieving lost, corrupted, or inaccessible data from various storage devices such as hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, and servers. They use advanced tools and techniques to recover data after accidental deletion, hardware failure, software corruption, or cyberattacks. These professionals may also provide advice on best practices for data backup and protection to prevent future data loss. Their work is essential for businesses and individuals who need to recover important files quickly and securely.
Infographic showing various Data Recovery Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $128,018 per year, or $61.5 per hour.

Data Recovery Engineer - Windows Platform

DriveSavers Data Recovery

Novato, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Seeking a candidate with 1-2 years of IT / Desktop Support and troubleshooting experience on the Windows PC platform who is excited to learn the art of data recovery.
Education
Associate/Bachelor Degree or equivalent work experience
Required Skills and Experience
  • 1-2 years experience in an IT / Desktop Support environment with an emphasis on corporate support
  • Experience with encryption software is a plus
  • Knowledge of MS Office products
  • Maintains knowledge of current technology
  • Experience and understanding of computer hardware components for troubleshooting and upgrading purposes
  • Using Terminal to complete tasks
  • Must have passion for staying ahead of current and future technologies
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
  • Great customer service skills are required as you will need to work with customers over the phone on some projects
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Able to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Able to analyze and evaluate customer needs
  • Able to prioritize and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

If you have some of the qualifications but not all, please tell us why you think you should be considered.
Benefits
  • Competitive Salary
  • Monthly Bonuses
  • 401K Retirement Plan
  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Plan
  • Ongoing Training
  • Paid Holidays
  • Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Events and Celebrations
  • Subsidized Stocked Refrigerator
  • Friendly Workspace
  • Green Business

From Employees on Glassdoor
  • Fun work environment, rewarding knowing that we get irreplaceable data back for customers.
  • Amazing work environment. Excellent incentives that encourage us all.
  • Friendly, inviting, and supportive work environment.
  • Great training, room for growth.
  • Engaging and manageable workload.
  • Each day brings new challenges with new and older technology.
  • Snacks and beverages are stocked regularly.
  • You feel valued as an employee. Comfortable work environment and strong incentives.
  • Drawings for various concerts, regular season and championship playoff (NHL, NFL, MLB, NBA) tickets, and other cool attractions are commonplace.
  • It's been great to work as an individual to make a difference to customers and work next to others with that same goal.
  • Small business with a work environment that feels like a family, while also being known as the leader in data recovery.